Matthew 24:44
Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
Original Language Analysis
διὰ
Therefore
G1223
διὰ
Therefore
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
1 of 16
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
γίνεσθε
be
G1096
γίνεσθε
be
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
5 of 16
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 16
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ᾗ
in such
G3739
ᾗ
in such
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
8 of 16
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
δοκεῖτε
as ye think
G1380
δοκεῖτε
as ye think
Strong's:
G1380
Word #:
11 of 16
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
υἱὸς
the Son
G5207
υἱὸς
the Son
Strong's:
G5207
Word #:
13 of 16
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
Cross References
Matthew 25:10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.Matthew 24:42Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.Matthew 25:13Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.Luke 12:40Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.Philippians 4:5Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.Matthew 24:27For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.Revelation 19:7Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.James 5:9Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.
Historical Context
The following parables (wise/foolish virgins, talents, sheep/goats) illustrate readiness versus unpreparedness. Readiness means genuine faith producing faithful works, not mere profession. The unexpected timing tests whether disciples serve from love or merely fear consequences. True readiness reflects transformed character, not external conformity.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you living in a state of readiness for Christ's return today?
- What areas of your life would not be ready if Christ returned now?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' warning 'Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh' reiterates the need for constant readiness. 'Be ready' means living in a state of spiritual preparedness—right relationship with God, faithful service, holy living. 'In such an hour as ye think not' warns against assuming delay or predicting timing. Christ comes unexpectedly, catching the unprepared by surprise. Readiness isn't last-minute cramming but ongoing faithfulness.